Episode 4 — Weekly Recap + Brainerd’s New Coach
This week on Matside Minnesota, Chris and Derek kick things off with a recap of last week’s biggest matches, breaking down key results and storylines across Minnesota wrestling.
Then we welcome Andy Pickar, the new Head Coach at Brainerd High School. Coach Pickar shares his vision for the Warriors program, his approach to building culture, and what excites him most about leading the team.

🎉 A fun highlight: Coach Pickar’s daughter Ariana joins the conversation! Ariana is currently ranked individually in Minnesota, and the Brainerd Warrior girls team also holds a state ranking — making this a true family wrestling moment.

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This week on Matside Minnesota, we bring you a double feature. First, Chris and Derek share their season overview, highlighting area wrestlers to watch and storylines that will shape the 2024–25 season across central and northern Minnesota.

Then, we sit down with Lynn Jennissen, Class AA ratings editor for The Guillotine, Minnesota’s wrestling newspaper. Lynn takes us behind the scenes of his process for evaluating wrestlers across all 13 weight classes and building the Top 10 rankings — a task that blends data, match results, and plenty of judgment calls.

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We sit down with two new head coaches to hear how they’re building programs, connecting with their communities, and preparing athletes for the season. Jamey Koetter (Holdingford) and Tate Card (Minnewaska) share coaching philosophies, early priorities, and the small decisions that shape a team’s culture.

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In the heart of Minnesota, a new wrestling program is taking shape, bringing excitement and opportunity to young athletes. The inaugural episode of the Matside Minnesota podcast dives deep into the journey of Pillager High School as it rolls out its first varsity wrestling program in 46 years, showcasing the passion and dedication of its coaches and community.

The Matside Minnesota podcast, hosted by wrestling enthusiasts Chris Etzler and Derek Holst, aims to spotlight high school wrestling across central and northern Minnesota. Each week, they provide match recaps, interviews, and insightful stories that celebrate the athletes, coaches, and communities that enrich this beloved sport. The podcast promises to be a platform for interaction, inviting listeners to share their own wrestling stories and experiences.

Pillager High School has a rich history of co-op wrestling, previously joining forces with Brainerd and Little Falls. However, this year marks a significant milestone as the school launches its own varsity program. Chris and Derek sit down with Ben Horn, the new head wrestling coach, and Matt Moen, the activities director, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of building a program from the ground up.

Starting a new wrestling program requires careful planning and dedication. Coach Horn and AD Moen emphasize the importance of grassroots initiatives, focusing on youth engagement to create a sustainable pipeline of talent. They recount the process of recruiting athletes, securing funding, and establishing a culture that fosters growth and competitiveness. They also highlight the community's support, which has been instrumental in getting the program off the ground.

One of the significant hurdles in launching the program was navigating the requirements set by the Minnesota State High School League. AD Moen describes how the process was surprisingly straightforward, involving simple forms and communication with existing co-ops. The goal was clear: to provide opportunities for young wrestlers in Pillager, and the league was supportive of this vision.

The camaraderie within the wrestling community is palpable, as both coaches and former opponents come together to support Pillager's new venture. Coach Horn shares anecdotes of mentorship from experienced coaches and the collaborative spirit that defines the wrestling culture in Minnesota.

In launching its varsity wrestling program, Pillager High School is not just creating a team; it’s building a legacy that will inspire future generations of wrestlers. The dedication of Coach Horn, AD Moen, and the supportive community exemplifies the true spirit of high school athletics. As the wrestling season unfolds, all eyes will be on Pillager, eager to witness their journey.

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